Bonhams Auctions Exciting New Consignments

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1939 998cc Rapide Series A is one of only 50-or-so survivors out of fewer than 80 made, while the 1955 998cc Black Shadow is the last Series C example of this iconic model.

Six outstanding motorcycles from an important private collection are to feature in Bonhams next auction at the Classic Motorcycle Show in Stafford, on 29th April 2012.

This eclectic collection of six historically significant motorcycles has been assembled over the last few years by the enthusiast vendor, who wishes to remain anonymous. Kept in climate controlled conditions within the owner’s private museum, they range from an ultra-rare, fully restored 1928 Windhoff 750cc four-cylinder (estimate £90,000-120,000) to a ROC-Yamaha 500cc Grand Prix racing motorcycle of 1992 (estimate £25,000-35,000).

A racing motorcycle from a very different era, the collection’s 1931 Douglas 750cc sidecar outfit is believed to be one of only three examples of this works model built and thought to be that of Jack Douglas, grandson of company founder, William (estimate £35,000-45,000).

Two other great names in the history of the British motorcycle industry also feature in the sale - Brough Superior and Vincent - the former being represented by a 1934 996cc SS100 that previously formed part of the Murray Motorcycle Museum collection in the Isle of Man. Known as the ‘two of everything’ model because its JAP v-twin engine had two carburetors, two magnetos and two oil pumps, it is one of the rarest of SS100 variants with only eight made (£150,000-180,000).

The two Vincents span almost the entire period of v-twin production at the Stevenage factory. Previously forming part of the late Brian Verrall’s exceptional collection, the 1939 998cc Rapide Series A is one of only 50-or-so survivors out of fewer than 80 made (estimate £180,000-220,000), while the 1955 998cc Black Shadow is the last Series C example of this iconic model produced prior the introduction of the revised Series D range (estimate £70,000-100,000) .

200 machines are consigned to the sale and further highlights include:

Ben Walker, Head of Bonhams Motorcycle department, comments, “The Spring Stafford sale is one of our premier collectors’ motorcycle sales of the year and once again we’re proud to present an eclectic and diverse selection of fine machinery, from early Pioneers through to modern era Grand Prix - and everything in between.”